I attended the Philadelphia Zoo LumiNature when it came to the region in 2019 before you know what hit. My family absolutely loved seeing the Zoo lit up in all of his splendor. So it was absolutely no question if we would return to see it again. I must say I couldn’t even imagine how they could have gotten any better but I am glad I was wrong. It’s a beauty to see. Let’s talk logistics and the full review of LumiNature.
LumiNature Admission
When you pay for your admission keep in mind that it’s separated from the Philadelphia Zoo as far as seeing the animals. There was only one zebra that was out and all of the other animals are put away for their safety with the lights. So if you want to see the Zoo as well as the light show keep in mind that you will need to purchase separated tickets. The latest the Zoo times are around 1:30pm. LumiNature starts from around 5pm until 10pm most nights. Pro tip would be take the family to the Zoo for the animals, get an early dinner and then come back for the Light Show.
Getting into the Zoo
Be prepared to have some patience when it comes to getting into the Zoo. The parking lot has plenty of spaces. It took a few extra minutes to get in not because the Zoo doesn’t have parking but having to deal with some of the drivers who weren’t following instructions. To make it move smoothly keep in mind you have to move with the traffic lights. Beeping the horn will not make the flow of traffic go faster. Also keep in mind that the staff wants you to park as efficiently as possible. When we came for our 5:30pm ticket time, staff wanted everyone to go directly to the 3rd floor. However most of the cars wanted to go another way. Please pay attention and respect the staff as they work to get everyone in as close to their ticketed time.
Have Tickets Readily Available
Tickets are E-tickets. They work well on your phone or printed. If you are having you tickets on your phone, be sure to turn the brightness of the phone to the highest possible setting. It helps the ticket reader to scan appropriately. Also all bags of all kinds are being checked for the safety of all guests.
Stroller Courtesy
For those with strollers I must say that being mindful of your surroundings is helpful. I have small kids who are no longer in a stroller. However I do remember those days where you have to stop to grab a child, etc. Whenever possible look behind you as you stop. Keep in mind that the crowds are a little more increased. As you stop at the drop of a dime, that doesn’t mean those behind you are prepared to stop.
Food and Drinks
There are several stops for food and drink. Not all areas of the Zoo is open. So pay attention to where you are. Do not cross the locations that are marked off for your safety. There are seasonal drinks and foods and plenty of spots to stop, get warm, and enjoy all of the treats. To sitting outside near heat lamps to semi enclosed tents for families and friends to enjoy their time. Also you can also walk around and drink you favorite drinks as well.
Christmas Trees
There are beautiful Christmas trees that are luminated. From the dazzling colors, to the themes such as the Butterfly Tree it’s so stunning to see. The Christmas trees are there for all to enjoy. So take in the dazzle of them all. Be mindful as others are also trying to get their shots. I said it earlier and I truly do mean it pack some patience. The light show is a walking light tour and on your own pace.
Flamingo Tree
The Flamingo Tree was a beauty last year and they have done a better job making it stick out this year. I was super impressed with how beautiful it was. You can’t miss it. It’s one of the best displays that LumiNature is known for. The tree is made up of all pink flamingos. I kept telling my youngest as we got closer to be ready. Her whole face lit up as we saw it.
Bigger and Better
LumiNature definitely has expanded. It’s beautiful and immersive. There are plenty of places and spaces to take pictures. Just be mindful not to go into the areas that are marked off. Stay safe especially with little children. Do NOT allow them to walk all over the displays. I seen a lot of children in situations where they could have gotten hurt. The Philadelphia Zoo LumiNature is a great place to take friends and family. It will lit until January 9th. So enjoy it as often as you would like. Consider becoming a member and take advantage of discounted tickets as well as free parking.
Thank you to the Philadelphia Zoo and Aversa PR for having us. I absolutely loved all of the displays. As soon as you walked away from one you walked right into another one. So much to see and do. Make sure to leave about an hour and a half to two hours for your visit. Make sure you get your tickets before hand. Tickets are timed so get there about 15 minutes before your start time.
The Philadelphia Zoo is located at 3400 Girard Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19104.
